Natural Futures: Forest Grazing

Summary

In this video, Russell Bachelor shares his experience farming Longhorn cattle in the woods near Taunton, in partnership with the Forestry Commission. The cattle play a vital role in managing rough, scrubby, and wet land by keeping the vegetation in check. The Black Downs Rough Grazing Association supports farmers and non-farmers in preserving such landscapes, promoting grazing with animals like cattle and sheep. Longhorns, one of the oldest British breeds, are well-suited to this rugged terrain, thriving in the area's wet conditions. Their gentle nature and tasty meat make them a prized asset for both conservation and culinary purposes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Russell Bachelor is a farmer who raises Longhorn cattle in the woods near Taunton.
• 😀 The farm is managed in partnership with the Forestry Commission, focusing on land management with Longhorn cattle.
• 😀 The main purpose of the cattle is to help keep grasses and scrub under control during vigorous growth seasons.
• 😀 The Black Downs Rough Grazing Association helps farmers and non-farmers manage rough, scrubby, and wet land.
• 😀 The association’s goal is to prevent land from being overtaken by overgrowth, rather than making a profit.
• 😀 The land can be used for grazing animals like sheep and cattle to help with this land management.
• 😀 Longhorn cattle are one of the oldest breeds in the country, originating from the middle counties.
• 😀 Despite their intimidating appearance due to their horns, Longhorn cattle are known for being docile.
• 😀 Longhorn cattle are well-suited to the conditions of the Black Downs, especially with frequent rainfall.
• 😀 Not only are Longhorn cattle hardy and well-adapted to the environment, but their meat is also known to taste great.

Q & A

What type of farming does Russell Bachelor engage in?

Russell Bachelor farms Longhorn cattle in the woods, specifically in Quant, near Taunton.

Why is Russell Bachelor feeding and checking on the cattle?

Russell is feeding and checking on the cattle to ensure they are healthy and well-fed, which is part of their daily care routine.

How does the Forestry Commission work with Russell Bachelor's farm?

Russell is in partnership with the Forestry Commission to manage land, where Longhorn cattle are used to maintain the land and keep grasses down.

What is the purpose of using Longhorn cattle on the land?

The Longhorn cattle help manage the land by grazing and keeping the grasses and scrub down, especially during the vigorous growth times of the year.

What is the Black Downs Rough Grazing Association?

The Black Downs Rough Grazing Association is designed for both farmers and non-farmers, providing guidance on how to manage rough, scrubby, and wet land, focusing on land maintenance rather than profit-making.

Can animals other than Longhorn cattle be used on this land?

Yes, other animals such as sheep and cattle can also be used for grazing to help manage the land.

What makes Longhorn cattle special?

Longhorn cattle are one of the oldest breeds in the country, though their exact age is uncertain. They are well-suited to the Black Downs due to their hardiness and ability to adapt to the region's conditions, including a lot of rain.

How would you describe the temperament of Longhorn cattle?

Despite their imposing horns, Longhorn cattle are known to be very docile animals.

What is the benefit of using Longhorn cattle for grazing in the area?

Longhorn cattle help maintain the land by preventing overgrowth of scrub and grass, which is crucial for managing the land effectively.

What makes Longhorn cattle's meat desirable?

The meat of Longhorn cattle is known for tasting great, adding another benefit to their presence on the land.